A chipped or broken tooth can be alarming, whether it happens while eating, during an accident, or from grinding your teeth at night. While some chips are minor, others can cause pain, sensitivity, and even lead to further damage if left untreated.
At Smile Design Dentistry in Plymouth, MN, we offer fast and effective treatments to restore your tooth’s strength and appearance. If you’ve chipped or broken a tooth, here’s what to do next.
Immediate Steps to Take After Breaking a Tooth
✅ Rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area.
✅ Apply pressure with gauze if there’s bleeding.
✅ Use a cold compress to reduce swelling and pain.
✅ Avoid chewing on the broken tooth to prevent further damage.
✅ Save any broken fragments (if applicable) for potential reattachment.
✅ Contact an emergency dentist immediately—Smile Design Dentistry offers same-day emergency care in Plymouth, MN.
Common Causes of Chipped or Broken Teeth
- Biting Hard Objects – Ice, hard candy, and popcorn kernels can cause fractures.
- Accidents & Trauma – Falls, car crashes, or sports injuries often lead to broken teeth.
- Teeth Grinding (Bruxism) – Chronic grinding weakens enamel, making teeth prone to chips.
- Cavities & Weak Enamel – Decay and weakened enamel increase the risk of fractures.
- Old Dental Work – Worn fillings and crowns may not support teeth properly.
- Sudden Temperature Changes – Extreme shifts between hot and cold can cause cracks.
Smile Design Dentistry in Plymouth, MN, provides expert repair for chipped and broken teeth. Contact us today for treatment.
Can a Broken Tooth Heal on Its Own?
No, a broken or chipped tooth cannot heal on its own. Unlike bones, tooth enamel does not regenerate. Without treatment, a chipped tooth may:
- Worsen Over Time – Minor chips can grow into larger fractures.
- Cause Sensitivity & Pain – Exposed dentin or nerves can lead to discomfort.
- Increase Risk of Decay & Infection – Bacteria can enter cracks and cause further damage.
Treatment Options for a Chipped or Broken Tooth
The proper treatment depends on the severity of the damage. We offer several solutions to restore function and appearance.
- Dental Bonding (For Small Chips)
- Quick, non-invasive, and cost-effective.
- Uses tooth-colored resin to repair minor damage.
- Typically completed in one visit.
- Veneers (For Front Tooth Chips & Cosmetic Concerns)
- Thin porcelain shells cover the front of teeth.
- Ideal for larger chips or cosmetic enhancement.
- Durable and stain-resistant.
- Dental Crowns (For Major Breaks & Weakened Teeth)
- Long-lasting caps the tooth to restore structure and function.
- Recommended for large fractures or weak teeth.
- CEREC same-day crowns available for fast repair.
Cost of Repairing a Chipped or Broken Tooth
The cost of treatment depends on the severity of the damage and the chosen procedure. Below are estimated price ranges:
- Dental Bonding: $100–$400 per tooth
- Veneers: $925–$2,500 per tooth
- Dental Crowns: $800–$1,500 per tooth
💳 Insurance & Financing Options
Many dental insurance plans cover crowns, bonding, and sometimes veneers if the damage is medically necessary. Smile Design Dentistry offers flexible financing to help make treatment affordable.
For a personalized cost estimate, schedule a consultation at our Plymouth, MN office.
How to Prevent Chipped or Broken Teeth in the Future
Preventative measures can help protect your teeth from fractures.
- Wear a Mouthguard – A custom night guard prevents grinding-related damage.
- Avoid Chewing Hard Objects – Ice, pens, and hard candy increase the risk of chips.
- Strengthen Enamel – Use fluoride toothpaste and maintain regular dental checkups.
- Protect Your Teeth in Sports – A custom sports mouthguard reduces impact injuries.
- Address Dental Issues Early – Weak fillings or cavities can lead to fractures if untreated.
Why Choose Smile Design Dentistry for Chipped Tooth Repair?
At Smile Design Dentistry in Plymouth, MN, we provide expert care for chipped and broken teeth with:
- Comprehensive Treatment Options – Bonding, veneers, and crowns
- Advanced Technology – CEREC same-day crowns and minimally invasive techniques.
- Emergency Appointments – Prompt care to prevent further damage.
- Flexible Financing & Insurance Assistance – Affordable options tailored to your needs.
Restore your smile with professional, compassionate care.
